On October 11, 2025, the Seattle Sounders secured a 1-0 victory over Real Salt Lake (RSL), confirming their fifth-place finish in the Western Conference with their 14th win of the season.

The match's decisive moment came early when Paul Rothrock scored in the 4th minute after a sequence involving Jordan Morris and Pedro de la Vega, giving the Sounders an early lead.

Seattle missed a penalty in the 14th minute when Jordan Morris’s shot was saved by RSL goalkeeper Rafael Cabral after a review awarded the penalty for a foul on Morris by Rothrock.

The game showcased the Sounders' ability to adapt to lineup changes and their reliance on developing players from their pipeline, emphasizing team effort and resilience despite challenges.

The match was characterized by a significantly rotated lineup due to injuries, suspensions, and international duty, with key players like Cristian Roldan and Albert Rusnák unavailable, leading to reliance on academy players and Tacoma Defiance developments.

Key players included Danny Leyva, who played a crucial role in midfield, and Alex Roldan, who shifted from defense to midfield and delivered a solid performance, highlighting the squad's depth and adaptability.

A late goal by Victor Olatunji for RSL was disallowed after an offside review, preventing RSL from equalizing, and the Sounders held on to win in a match marked by tactical adjustments and resilient defending.

Despite multiple chances and good possession, the Sounders struggled to double their lead, with their only goal standing as the match-winner; RSL increased pressure in the second half, forcing several saves from goalkeeper Stefan Frei.